California Courier Online, April 27, 2006

1 – Commentary
FOX-TV Airs Armenian
Genocide Program
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier

2 – Raffi Manoukian Selected for 2006
Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award
3 – Raffe Deirmenjian Named to
L.A. Human Relations Commission
4 – Mitch Kehetian Honored For
Outstanding Journalism Career
5 – Birthright Armenia Hires L.A. Sevan
Kabakian to Head Armenia Operations
6 – Gov. Schwarzenegger Proclaims April 23-29,
‘Days of Remembrance of Armenian Genocide
7 – Kazanjian Picked by Tournament
Of Roses as Float Judge for 2007
8 – Over 200 Members of Congress Urge President
Bush to Properly Characterize 1915 Genocide
***************************************** ********************************
1 – Commentary
FOX-TV Airs Armenian
Genocide Program

By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier

In recent days, thousands of articles were published on the Armenian
Genocide in newspapers around the world. In addition, in dozens of
countries, TV and radio stations provided extensive coverage of the
commemorative events for the 91st anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
This writer brought his share by delivering public remarks and
participating in several Armenian and non-Armenian TV programs. Last year,
the Los Angeles affiliate of FOX-TV (KTTV, Channel 11) interviewed him on
the eve of the 90th anniversary, while airing live satellite pictures of
the procession of hundreds of thousands of Armenians at the Genocide
Memorial Monument in Yerevan.
This year, FOX-TV invited this writer again to their studios on April 23rd,
while airing live satellite footage of the procession at the Genocide
Monument in Armenia. An hour later that night, he was interviewed by UPN
(KCOP-TV, Channel 13). The transcript of that second interview will be
provided at a later date. Here is the transcript of the FOX-TV interview:
FOX-TV anchor 1: It’s Monday morning in Armenia where an entire nation is
marking the 91st anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
FOX-TV anchor 2: The Los Angeles area is home to 350,000 people of Armenian
descent. The Genocide, long denied by the Turkey, is a very emotional issue
for Armenians here and around the world.
Anchor 1: And now you are looking at a live shot of Yerevan, Armenia’s
capital, where ceremonies are underway commemorating the start of the
Genocide on April 24th, 1915. It’s estimated over one million Armenians
were killed between 1915 and 1923.
Anchor 2: Joining us now in studio is Harut Sassounian of the United
Armenian Fund. It’s nice to have you back. Thanks for coming in. And yet, I
feel that when we begin to ask you questions in 2006, the questions don’t
differ a whole lot from in 2005. Does that make you feel sad, to an extent
that the progress has not been as quick as you would like it to be?
Sassounian: It’s frustrating because the facts of history are clear, but
for political reasons, people play games, and that is what’s frustrating to
us — because they know the truth, and yet, they want to cover up the truth
for political considerations.
Anchor 1: Let’s go back a step and be more precise here. You would like the
United States government to recognize that there was an Armenian Genocide,
in the first place, and the Turkish government as well?
Sassounian: The United States government in the past has had no problem
recognizing it, but in recent years, because of political considerations in
the region, they have started playing word games. They don’t want to come
out and flat out to say it. There is a resolution in both the House and the
Senate which the administration is blocking from coming to a vote. If it
would come to a vote, it would pass with an overwhelming majority.
Anchor 2: I would also like you to speak to the live pictures that we are
seeing in Yerevan.
Sassounian: Every year on April 24, it’s already April 24 — Armenia is 12
hours ahead of Los Angeles — so already tens of thousands, if not hundreds
of thousands of Armenians are starting the solemn procession from early
morning hours till late at night. They pay their respects and they place
flowers. The government leaders are there as well as the ambassadors of
various countries.
Anchor 2: Speaking of ambassadors, you have been writing a lot of editorial
pieces, a lot of articles lately about the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, John
Evans, talking about the U.S. government calling him back to the United
States after he said what?
Sassounian: Amb. Evans was in Los Angeles last year, in February 2005. He
met a large number of Armenian groups and in one of his meetings, he made a
statement acknowledging the Armenian Genocide, calling it “the first
genocide of the 20th Century.” A few days later, when he got back, they
[the State Dept.] slapped his hands and told him, “that’s a no-no! You’re
not supposed to say that. Issue a clarification, saying that that was your
personal opinion as opposed to the policy of the U.S. government.” He
issued that [clarification]. Then they made him retract a part of his
clarification. They did not like the way he had clarified it. They made him
make a second clarification. Then the American Foreign Service Association
gave him a “Constructive Dissent” award. They gave him an award for
dissenting from policy. Right before getting the award, the State Dept.
forced the Association to rescind the award. So they took the award away,
and now they are firing him!
Anchor 1: Does this say more about politics of the word genocide?
Sassounian: The facts are clear. There is no dispute about the facts. Even
the founder of the modern Turkish Republic, Kemal Ataturk, recognized the
Genocide in a 1926 interview. Turkish tribunals tried and sentenced to
death the masterminds of the Genocide. The U.S. government…Pres. Reagan
recognized it in a Presidential Proclamation in 1981. The U.S. Congress —
the House of Representatives, twice in 1975 and 1984, passed resolutions
recognizing it. There are millions of documents in the U.S. national
archives testifying to that fact. The U.S. Ambassador back then in 1915….
Anchor 1: What the Turkish government says is that there were casualties on
both sides. That’s why they are reluctant….
Sassounian: Even though they know better…. The good news this year, as
opposed to last year, more and more Turkish scholars are coming forward
saying, “look, we started this, it is genocide, and it is time for Turkey
to face the facts of history.” So that’s the new development.
Anchor 2: Which is what the U.S. State Dept. has said it is encouraging.
That’s its position. It says that we believe we want other countries, we
encourage other countries to examine themselves, examine their own issues.
Why is that not good enough for you?
Sassounian: It’s not good enough because the U.S. government, first of all,
before the United States starts giving a lecture about democracy to foreign
countries, it has to practice what it preaches itself, by recognizing a
fact of history that happened 91 years ago, And then, only then, when you
are on a solid ground, you can give a lecture about bringing democracy to
Iraq, Russia or China. Then, that would make it more credible, if we
practice what we preach ourselves.
Anchor 2: Is there concern, I am looking here at, from the United Nations,
there are adopted resolutions on what genocide is and on what the
ramifications are when signatory countries dispute genocide, as they are
right now? Is it possible that this could end up in the International Court
of Justice should the United States make a wrong step? Is that actually
what you are concerned about?
Sassounian: We would not take the U.S. to court. But there is a lot of
conversation in the Armenian community worldwide, consulting with
international legal experts on possibly taking Turkey to the international
court.
************************************************* *************************

2 – Raffi Manoukian Selected for 2006
Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award
GLENDALE – City Council Member Rafi Manoukian was recently notified that he
has been selected by the Board of Directors and the Selection Committee of
the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) as a recipient of the
2006 Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Manoukian is one of 100 recipients who will be presented with this award on
Ellis Island on Saturday, May 13.
“This is truly a great honor for not only me but for the City of Glendale,”
says Manoukian.
The medal honors Americans of diverse origins who have made great
contributions to the nation. The U.S. Senate passed a resolution sponsored
by Senator Hilary Clinton (D-NY) that officially recognizes this award,
calling it a “celebration of the richness and diversity of American life.”
The House of Representatives passed a similar resolution. This recognition
from both the House and the Senate adds an even greater distinction to one
of the nation’s most prestigious awards and pays tribute to those
individuals who have been honored as recipients.
Members of the NECO Board of Directors and Honorary Chairpersons include
Sen. Hillary Clinton, U.S. Representative Dan Burton (R-IN), former New
York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, Gov. George Pataki, George Steinbrenner,
III, and Lee Iacocca, among other notables.
************************************************** ************************
3 – Raffe Deirmenjian Named to
L.A. Human Relations Commission
LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti has
appointed Raffe Deirmenjian to serve on the city’s Human Relations
Commission Advisory Committee that strives to promote positive race and
human relation in the increasingly complex and multicultural county of Los
Angeles, reported the Armenian National Committee of America – Western
Region (ANCA-WR).
Deirmenjian, a member of the West San Fernando Valley ANCA, has worked
diligently to have the Armenian Genocide included in the Los Angeles
Unified School District’s curriculum, and during a time of racial conflict
at local Grant High School, worked with students and administrators to
successfully settle the conflict. ANCA-WR Chairman Steven Dadaian described
Deirmenjian as an ideal candidate for the position.
“Having worked closely within the ANCA, Raffe has the necessary background
in not only managing human relations, but also grasping the ideals that
help to overcome prejudice, bias, and other divisive attitudes that can
lead to inter-cultural tension,” said Dadaian.
The Commission teams with law enforcement, schools, cities, community-based
organizations, youth, academics, policy makers, businesses and other
leaders, to bring key players together to resolve immediate inter-cultural
conflicts.
“It’s rare to find a person with such a diverse background,” stressed
Dadaian who points to Derimenjian’s current position as a Second Vice
President of Wealth Management at Smith Barney, who also carries education
in political science and business marketing and has five years of hands-on
experience on Wall Street, coupled with consistent and practical public
policy experience within the ANCA. “He fits the ideal profile to serve on
this Commission whose mission is to lay the groundwork for a long-term
campaign to eradicate unfair practices, while working within the system,”
remarked Dadaian.
Also appointed to the Human Relations Commission Advisory Committee were
Vicky Ortega, Karen Hallock, Al Garcia, and Jose Roberto Hernandez.
*************************************** ************************************

4 – Mitch Kehetian Honored For
Outstanding Journalism Career
DETROIT — In recognition of 52 years as an outstanding newspaper reporter,
editor, and leader in journalism, veteran Michigan newsman Mitch Kehetian
was awarded Wayne State University’s coveted “Lifetime Achievement Award”
at the April 6 campus observance of Journalism Day.
Kehetian started his newspaper career in 1953 with the Detroit Times and
was with the paper until its demise in 1960. He joined the ranks of
retirement last Nov.18 from the Macomb Daily, a suburban Detroit daily
newspaper where he served as editorial page editor. Previously Kehetian
held the posts of city editor, managing editor, and editor-in-chief with
the paper.
At the awards ceremony, Professor Ben Burns, director of the journalism
program at Wayne State, praised Kehetian’s career as a journalist who
practiced the tenets of truth in reporting and for dedicating a lifespan in
protecting the public’s right to know and by serving the journalism
community. In honoring Kehetian, Burns addressed the newsman’s stellar
service and leadership as president of the Detroit Chapter’s Society of
Professional Journalists and Detroit Press Club.
The veteran newsman held reporting and editorial posts with the Columbus
(Ohio) Citizen-Journal, Daily Eagle (western Wayne County – Michigan), and
East Side Newspapers-Community News in Detroit.
Kehetian said the last 52 years of his career placed him at the sidelines
of history and the award from Wayne State’s Department of Communication is
an honor he treasures.
********’****************************** ***********************************
5 – Birthright Armenia Hires L.A. Sevan
Kabakian to Head Armenia Operations
YEREVAN – In a forward-looking initiative, Birthright Armenia has announced
that Sevan Kabakian will join the organization as Executive Director to
head up its Yerevan-based office, the Depi Hayk Foundation. The
organization celebrates its third year of successful service to Armenia and
the Diaspora and looks toward future expansion.
Linda Yepoyan, Executive Director for the organization’s U.S. operations,
describes Kabakian as “a committed, energetic and experienced individual
who will bring excellent leadership and vision to our Armenia-based
operations. His decades of grass-roots community experience within the Los
Angeles Armenian community will certainly serve as a great asset to
Birthright Armenia/Depi Hayk.”
Sevan Kabakian has an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a Master’s degree
in Aerospace Engineering from University of Southern California. Since
1987 he has worked as a flight performance engineer at McDonnell
Douglas/Boeing. On his journey to Armenia, he is joined by his wife,
Klariss, and his three young daughters, Naro, Naneh and Lalig.
In his new position, Kabakian will be managing all of the organization’s
operations in Armenia, working with local organizations and governmental
branches to establish new areas for volunteer job placements and internship
programs, as well as enhance an already active connection between Armenia
and the Diaspora.
He will also be charged with establishing the groundwork for the future
growth of the Depi Hayk Foundation, including expansion of the organization
outside Yerevan to the more rural areas of Armenia. “Birthright Armenian
is a wonderful vehicle by which countless Diasporan youth will experience
their ethnic homeland in a meaningful way,” says Kabakian. “I look forward
to serving the organization on this vital mission.”
While his role with Birthright Armenia/Depi Hayk may be new, Kabakian is no
stranger to the Armenian Diasporan community, especially among Armenian
youth. Born in Lebanon, he has been a well-respected leader in the Los
Angeles Armenian community for 25 years. As leader of the Glendale
Armenian Youth Federation Badanees (Juniors), he actively encouraged a
sense of pride, duty and responsibility among youth through a strong
connection to the Motherland.
“Visiting Armenia is at once a highly rewarding and emotional experience,”
says Kabakian. “I see myself as a host that welcomes Diasporan youth to
their second home.” As evidence of his dedication, Kabakian led a group of
Armenian youth in a pilgrimage to Western Armenia last summer in an
exploration of that lost element of the Armenian heritage.
Birthright Armenia’s mission is to strengthen ties between the Homeland and
Diasporan youth by affording them an opportunity to be a part of Armenia’s
daily life and to contribute to Armenia’s development through work, study
and volunteer experiences, while developing life-long personal ties and a
renewed sense of Armenian identity. For those interested in learning more
about Birthright Armenia, visit or email
[email protected] .
************************************************ *******************
6 – Gov. Schwarzenegger Proclaims April 23-29,
‘Days of Remembrance of Armenian Genocide
April 24, 1915, marked the beginning of the Armenian Genocide – a crime
against humanity that led to the death of 1.5 million Armenians between
1915 and 1923. The 500,000 Armenians who survived the horrors of this
extermination by the Ottoman Empire were expelled from their homes and
forced to settle in various countries throughout the world.
Stripped of their possessions, these refugees carried with them little more
than the memories of loved ones, a hope for a better life and the courage
to start anew. Armed with this determination, they flourished in many of
their adopted homelands, including California – home to the largest
Armenian population outside of the Republic of Armenia.
Today, these Armenian survivors and their descendants continue to provide
tremendous leadership and invaluable contributions to our state’s
businesses, art community, and academic, governmental and cultural
institutions. Their spirit of hard work and perseverance, coupled with
their dedication to tradition, is a great example to all Californians and
adds to the luster of our Golden State.
As we commemorate the ninety-first anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, we
must study and learn history’s lessons, fight to end bigotry and hate in
all their forms and live lives of tolerance towards all people. Silence
only serves to perpetuate the denial of the past, while open
acknowledgement lays the foundation for a more hopeful tomorrow. In that
spirit of hope, I stand alongside our friends in the Armenian community in
recognizing the Armenian Genocide, and urge all freedom-loving people in
America and around the world to do the same.
Now, therefore,, I, Arnold Swarzenegger, Governor of the State of
California, do hereby proclaim the week of April 23rd through April 29th,
2006, as “Days of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide.”
/s/ Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor of California
*************************************** ************************************
7 – Kazanjian Picked by Tournament
Of Roses as Float Judge for 2007
PASADENA, Calif., April 19 /PRNewswire/ — The Tournament of Roses has
selected Bev Doolittle, Frances Dudley and Howard Kazanjian as float judges
for the 118th Rose Parade themed, “Our Good Nature.” Twenty-four of the
floral beauties in the Parade will receive awards in a variety of
categories and specifications. The Judges’ scores are based on criteria
such as creative design, floral craftsmanship, artistic merit, computerized
animation, thematic interpretation, floral and color presentation, and
dramatic impact. Doolittle, Dudley and Kazanjian were appointed by the
Tournament’s Judging Committee.
Film and television producer and entertainment executive, Howard Kazanjian,
was born and raised in Pasadena. A graduate of the film school at USC,
Kazanjian is most well known for serving as producer for blockbusters such
as “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Return Of The Jedi.” Kazanjian also
produced the pilot and first season of the hit television show “JAG.” In
addition to his
film and television success, Kazanjian is also an author. His works include
a biography of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans titled “The Cowboy and the
Seniorita.”
The 118th Rose Parade themed “Our Good Nature” will take place Monday, Jan.
1, 2007 at 8 a.m. (PST) featuring majestic floral floats, high-stepping
equestrian units and spirited marching bands from throughout the nation.
************************************************* *************************
8 – Over 200 Members of Congress Urge President
Bush to Properly Characterize 1915 Genocide
WASHINGTON, DC – Two hundred and eight U.S. legislators last week called on
President Bush to reaffirm the U.S. record on the Armenian Genocide,
reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) and the Armenian
Assembly of America, who credited a unified community effort for the
outpouring of support.
In separate letters, 178 Representatives and 30 Senators specifically asked
the President to properly characterize the atrocities as “genocide,” in his
annual April 24th remarks. In February of 2000, during Michigan’s hotly
contested Republican primary, then Governor Bush promised to properly
recognize the Armenian Genocide if elected president. Since taking office
in 2001, the President has retreated from this pledge, issuing a succession
of April 24 statements that use euphemistic terminology to diminish the
full historical, moral, and contemporary legal implications of Ottoman
Turkey’s genocide against the Armenian nation.
The House letter, organized by Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen
Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), stressed that, “the United
States must never allow crimes against humanity to pass without remembrance
and condemnation. As U.S. efforts to aid victims of genocide continue, it
is imperative that we pay tribute to the memory of others who have suffered
and never forget the past. By commemorating the Armenian Genocide, we
renew our commitment to prevent future atrocities and therefore negate the
dictum that history is condemned to repeat itself.”
“We thank Senators Ensign and Durbin and Congressmen Knollenberg and
Pallone for circulating these critical initiatives requesting that the
President reaffirm the Armenian Genocide,” said Assembly Board of Trustees
Chairman Hirair Hovnanian. “We also thank the Armenian-American community
for their unified effort in urging their Congressmen to support Genocide
reaffirmation in the face of Turkey’s ongoing denial campaign.”
The Senate letter, led by Senators John Ensign (R-NV) and Richard Durbin
(D-IL), noted that, “The memory of the Armenian Genocide underscores our
responsibility to speak forcefully about our respect for fundamental human
rights and opposition to mass slaughters. It is in the best interests of
our nation and the entire global community to remember the past and learn
from these crimes against humanity to ensure that they are never repeated.
We respectfully request that you refer to the mass slaughter of Armenians
as genocide in your commemorative statement.”
“The Armenian Genocide is incontrovertible, of which the U.S. Archives is
replete with thousands of pages documenting this horrific crime,” said
Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg and Frank Pallone. “The President has employed
a textbook definition of genocide to describe the events that occurred from
1915-1923, but a full and irrevocable U.S. affirmation of the Armenian
genocide is necessary to prevent such crimes from happening in the future.”
“We are very gratified by the strong, bipartisan message from Congress
encouraging the President to properly recognize the
Armenian Genocide in his April 24th remarks,” said Aram Hamparian,
Executive Director of the ANCA. “We join with our Congressional friends –
most notably Senators John Ensign and Dick Durbin and Armenian Caucus
Co-Chairs Frank Pallone and Joe Knollenberg – in calling for moral clarity
in our nation’s response to genocide.”
*************************************** ************************************

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Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2006
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
E-mail: [email protected]

ASSEMBLY LEADERS CONVENE IN WASHINGTON FOR ANNUAL TRUSTEES MEETING
Announce Approval of Board Merger

Washington, DC – In an effort to streamline the effectiveness of the
organization, Armenian Assembly Trustees added their support to the
merger of the Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors into one
governing body.

The approved merger was announced during the Assembly’s Annual
Trustees Meeting, led by Chairman Hirair Hovnanian, in Washington, DC
last month. Nominating Committee Chair Van Krikorian reported that an
overwhelming 90 percent of Assembly Trustee Members voted to approve
the historic merger.

The vote by the Trustees followed the official approval of the Board
of Directors Members and comes after careful deliberation in which the
Assembly concluded that given the complex issues confronting all of
us, such a merge would provide increased efficiency and greater
effectiveness to best address today’s demands and meet tomorrow’s
challenges.

“We had an outstanding meeting and appreciate the continued support of
our membership,” said Hovnanian. “We have important work to do in
Washington for the benefit of the Armenian people and I was pleased to
be in the company of such dedicated activists,” he continued.

The merged Board includes the following Members:

Hirair Hovnanian – Chairman
Carolyn G. Mugar – President
Robert A. Kaloosdian – Counselor and Vice Chair
Edele Hovnanian – Treasurer
Van Krikorian – Counselor
Anthony Barsamian – Board of Directors Chairman (through June 30th,
2006)/Executive Committee Member
Lisa Kalustian – Secretary
Joyce Stein – Assistant Secretary
Lisa Esayian – Executive Committee Member
Jirair Haratunian – Executive Committee Member
Annie Totah – Executive Committee Member
Peter Vosbikian – Executive Committee Member
Albert Momjian – Solicitor
Berge Ayvazian
Daniel Ajamian
Noubar Afeyan
Gerard L. Cafesjian
Lu Ann Ohanian
Richard Mushegain
John Waters

Also during the Annual Trustees Meeting, Assembly leaders reviewed
operations in the Washington, Los Angeles and Yerevan offices and
discussed the 2006 operating budget, received updates on legislation
pending before Congress, the ongoing Massachusetts lawsuit, the
Mission to Armenia and the Armenia Tree Project. Having concluded its
official business, the Assembly honored one of its own, outgoing Board
of Directors Member Ralph Tufenkian.

Outgoing Board of Directors Chairman Anthony Barsamian thanked
Tufenkian for his longstanding support and commitment to the Assembly
and said that in honor of his service, the Assembly planted 10 trees
in Armenia in Tufenkian’s name.

Executive Committee Member Lisa Esayian also presented an award to
ARAMAC State Chair for Kansas Alex Kotoyantz for his grassroots
activism and ongoing work to strengthen the Kansas-Armenia
partnership.

The Armenian Assembly is the largest Washington-based nationwide
organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian
issue. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

### NR#2006-035

Photographs available on the Assembly’s Web site at the following link:

/2006-035-1.JPG

Caption: Armenian Assembly Board of Trustees Chairman Hirair
Hovnanian, center, with Members of the Board of Trustees and Assembly
Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, top row second, from left.

/2006-035-2.JPG

Caption: L to R: Outgoing Board of Directors Member Ralph Tufenkian,
Board of Trustees President Carolyn Mugar, Board of Trustees Chairman
Hirair Hovnanian and Outgoing Board of Directors Chairman Anthony
Barsamian.

ress/2006-035/2006-035-3.JPG

Caption: ARAMAC State Chair for Kansas Alex Kotoyantz flanked by Board
of Trustees Executive Committee Member Lisa Esayian and Executive
Director Bryan Ardouny.

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04/25/2006
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WEBSITE AT <;HTTP://WWW.ASBAREZ. COM

1) President Bush Again Fails to Honor Pledge to Recognize Armenian Genocide
2) California Armenians Commemorate Genocide at Montebello Monument
3) Kocharian Blames Turkey as Armenians Mark Genocide Anniversary
4) System Of A Down Rally Urges Turkey to End Armenian Genocide Denial
5) KOCE-TV to Air “The Armenian Genocide”
6) AYF-Western Region Holds Protest at Turkish Consulate
7) Kocharian Thanks Lithuania for Genocide Recognition
8) Turkey Should Recognize Genocide before Joining EU
9) Canada’s Armenian Genocide Comment Angers Turkey

1) President Bush Again Fails to Honor Pledge to Recognize Armenian Genocide

WASHINGTON, DC–Despite the call for moral clarity from over two hundred US
legislators, President Bush failed, once again, to honor his pledge to
properly
characterize the Armenian genocide as a “genocide” in his annual April 24
remarks, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).
In a statement issued April 24, the annual day of remembrance for the
Armenian
genocide, the President again resorted to the use of evasive and euphemistic
terminology to obscure the full moral, historical, and contemporary legal
implications of Turkey’s genocide against the Armenian people between 1915 and
1923. In retreating from his promise, the President ignored the counsel of
the
one hundred and seventy-eight Representatives and thirty Senators who had
written letters urging him to properly characterize the Armenian genocide.
“Armenian Americans appreciate President Bush’s willingness to join with
Armenians around the world by speaking out on this solemn occasion, but sadly,
remain deeply troubled by his failure to honor his campaign pledge–and his
own
promise of moral clarity–by properly recognizing the Armenian genocide, ”
said
Aram Hamparian, Executive Director of the ANCA. “It is truly a sad day
when it
is left to a lone diplomat, our Ambassador to Armenia, John Evans, to honor
the
forsaken pledge of his President–to speak as the moral conscience of our
nation in the face of official White House complicity in the denial of this
crime against all humanity.”
As in the past, the ANCA has also expressed concern that the Administration’s
refusal to recognize the Armenian genocide reflects a broader unwillingness to
confront genocide–as evidenced by the White House’s failure to take decisive
steps to bring an end to the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan. The ANCA
is working with a broad coalition of organizations to pressure the
Administration to respond in a timely and meaningful way to the worsening
crisis in Darfur. “If we are to end the cycle of genocide, we must, as a
nation, generate the resolve to forcefully intervene to stop genocide when it
takes place, to unequivocally reject its denial, to hold the guilty
accountable, and to secure for the victims the justice they deserve,” added
Hamparian.
In February of 2000, then presidential candidate George W. Bush, campaigning
for votes among Armenian voters in the Michigan Republican primary, pledged to
properly characterize the genocidal campaign against the Armenian people. In
his statements as President, he has consistently avoided any clear
reference to
the Armenian genocide, and his Administration has consistently opposed
legislation marking this crime against humanity.

The text of the President’s remarks is provided below:

Presidential Message
April 24, 2006

Today, we remember one of the horrible tragedies of the 20th centurythe mass
killings and forced exile of as many as 1.5 million Armenians in the final
days
of the Ottoman Empire in 1915. This was a tragedy for all humanity and one
that we and the world must never forget.
We mourn this terrible chapter of history and recognize that it remains a
source of pain for people in Armenia and for all those who believe in freedom,
tolerance, and the dignity and value of every human life. It is a credit to
the
human spirit and generations of Armenians who live in Armenia, America, and
around the globe that they have overcome this suffering and proudly preserved
their centuries-old culture, traditions, and religion.
We praise the individuals in Armenia and Turkey who have sought to examine
the
historical events of this time with honesty and sensitivity. The analysis by
the International Center for Transitional Justice, while not the final word,
has made a significant contribution toward deepening our understanding of
these
events. We encourage dialogues, including through joint commissions, that
strive for a shared understanding of these tragic events and move Armenia and
Turkey towards normalized relations.
Today, we look with hope to a bright future for Armenia. Armenia’s Millennium
Challenge Compact reflects our confidence and the importance we place in
Armenia making progress on democratic reform and advancement of free markets.
We seek to help Armenia bolster its security and deepen its inclusion in the
Euro-Atlantic family. We remain committed to securing a peaceful and lasting
settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and hope the leaders of Armenia
and
Azerbaijan will take bold steps to achieve this goal.
On this solemn day of remembrance, Laura and I express our deepest
condolences
to the Armenian people. Our nations stand together, determined to create a
future of peace, prosperity, and freedom for the citizens of our countries and
the world.

–GEORGE W. BUSH

2) California Armenians Commemorate Genocide at Montebello Monument

“We need to use every ounce of pride we have in our ancestry, we need to
recall
the events of the Armenian genocide by saying, as one community, as one city,
as one nation, and one human race, that we expect those who deny the Genocide
to account for what happened to the Armenians,” said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio
Villaraigosa Sunday to the crowd gathered at the Armenian Genocide Monument in
Montebello’s Bicknell Park to commemorate the 91st anniversary of the Armenian
genocide.
The event was organized by the Armenian Genocide 91st Anniversary
Commemorative Committee of California.
Elected officials joined Armenian religious leaders and representatives of
various political organizations to honor the victims of the Genocide and
demand
proper recognition of the events. They included, among others: Los Angeles
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, State Senator Jackie Speier, Congressmember
Loretta
Sanchez (D-CA), Assemblymember Carol Liu, Member of the Board of Equalization
Jack Chiang, Ambassador Gagik Giragossian, Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Professor Peter Cowe, Narekatsi Professor of
Armenian Studies at UCLA, and Turkish Publisher Ragip Zarakolu.
Mayor Villaraigosa went on to say, “We not only need to remember on this day,
but we need to commit ourselves, everyone here, elected officials, religious
leaders with us today, men and women, the grandparents, survivors, their
children, Armenians and non Armenians alike, together. We need to harness the
energy we have here, and use this energy to move this movement ahead and to
ensure that our government does not allow this new injustice to occur.”
California State Senator Jackie Speier, explaining that we have gathered not
for apology but for justice, said “We must use our power, our passion, and our
perseverance to stop the cycle of genocide forever.” She continued to say that
we demand “justice because we know that Armenia cannot be safe as long as
Turkey remains unrepentant unapologetic perpetrator of genocide.”
Speaking about the ongoing denial of the Genocide, Loretta Sanchez said, “Our
leaders find themselves reluctant to call a thing by its true name. In the
interest of diplomacy and cooperation and partnership, language is softened.
Deeds are whitewashed, truths are forgotten, but we must not forget.”
Several of the speakers mentioned US Ambassador John Evans, who is being
recalled by the State Department for his use of the word genocide during a
speech last year.
Officials who addressed the crowd also called on President Bush to properly
characterize the first Genocide of the twentieth century in order to prevent
future genocides. Many pledged their unwavering support to Armenian Americans
in demanding the US and Turkey officially recognize the Armenian genocide.

3) Kocharian Blames Turkey as Armenians Mark Genocide Anniversary

YEREVAN (RFE/RL)–President Robert Kocharian said on Monday that modern-day
Turkey is responsible for the 1915 genocide of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire
as Armenia somberly marked the 91st anniversary of the start of the Genocide.
Hundreds of thousands of people silently marched to the Dzidzernagapert, a
hilltop memorial in Yerevan, and laid flowers by its eternal flame in an
annual
remembrance of the 1.5 million victims of the first genocide of the 20th
century. Some of them carried Armenian flags and banners denouncing Turkey’s
long-standing denial of the Genocide.
The day-long procession began with a prayer service in memory of the dead
that
was led by the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Catholicos Karekin
II, in
the presence of President Robert Kocharian, members of his government, and
other senior officials.
The heads of foreign diplomatic missions in Yerevan were the next to lay
wreathes at twelve bending columns that encircle the eternal fire on
Dzidzernagapert Hill overlooking the city center. Among them was US Ambassador
to Armenia John Evans.
Armenia’s leadership reaffirmed its pledge to seek worldwide recognition of
the Genocide in collaboration with the Armenian diaspora and to continue to
raise the issue in its dealings Turkey.
“Our pain is all the more intense as we are forced to struggle for the
recognition and condemnation of that black page of our history,” Kocharian
said
in a traditional April 24 written address to the nation. “As the defender of
the interests of the Armenians living in the homeland and around the world,
the
Republic of Armenia will continue that struggle.”
Kocharian indicated that Ankara’s unrepentant stance on the issue amounts to
complicity in the genocide. “Ottoman Turkey and its legal successor bear full
responsibility for this crime,” he said.
Armenian leaders have refrained in the past from implicating the existing
Turkish state in the 1915 genocide. Kocharian’s statement was welcomed by Giro
Manoyan, spokesman for the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). Manoyan
said that by doing so, Kocharian held Ankara responsible for “carrying out the
final phase of the genocide.”

4) System Of A Down Rally Urges Turkey to End Armenian Genocide Denial

Washington, DC–Armenian Americans from across the United States joined System
Of A Down’s Serj Tankian and John Dolmayan Monday at a Washington, DC “Rally
for Justice,” urging the Turkish Government to end its worldwide campaign of
Armenian genocide denial.
Organized by the Armenian National Committee of Greater Washington (ANC-GW)
and the Armenian Youth Federation Washington Chapter (AYF-Washington), the
protest attracted over 1,000 activists to the Turkish Embassy, as Armenians
around the world marked the 91st anniversary of this crime against humanity.
Among the participants was DC United star player Alecko Eskandarian, who was
MLS Cup Champion and MVP in 2004.
Tankian and Dolmayan are in Washington, DC as part of a three-day advocacy
tour in support of Congressional recognition of the Armenian genocide.
Following participation in the rally on Monday, the band members will be
meeting with Members of Congress and the media to urge passage of legislation
in the Senate and House that would recognize the Armenian genocide. The
measures in both houses enjoy strong bipartisan support, but are being blocked
from reaching a vote by the leadership–Speaker Hastert in the House and
Majority Leader Frist in the Senate.
On Tuesday evening, Tankian and Dolmayan will host a screening of excerpts
from “Screamers,” a powerful film by Carla Garapedian about System Of A Down’s
international anti-genocide advocacy efforts. On Wednesday evening, they will
be honored for their vocal pursuit of justice for the Armenian genocide at the
Annual Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill.
Having debuted two #1 Billboard albums in 2005 and having sold over 16
million
records around the world, System Of A Down has a tremendous nationwide
following and loyal fan base, who have heeded their call to action on social
justice issues, including support of legislation recognizing the Armenian
genocide. All band members lost family in the Armenian genocide committed by
Turkey and are deeply committed to ensuring proper US recognition of this
crime
against humanity. The band’s efforts have gained national press attention in
hundreds of articles appearing in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times,
Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Newsweek, MTV, BBC, VH1, ABC, FOX, WB, and
Rolling Stone.
The inter-generational “Rally for Justice” brought together young and old in
their call for the Turkish Government to end its campaign of Genocide denial.
Activists were met by a smaller group of Turkish and Azeri counter-protesters,
who were apparently organized by the Turkish Embassy staff and its paid
lobbyists.
AYF-Washington chairman Serouj Aprahamian noted that Genocide recognition
efforts are ongoing. “We will continue our efforts not just on April 24th but
all year round. Through education, organization and activism we will move our
cause forward and ensure justice for Armenians and all humanity,” noted
Aprahamian.
Following the demonstration, attendees walked to the Embassy of the Republic
of Armenia for a short service and wreath-laying ceremony. Members of local
Armenian organizations placed wreaths and flowers in front of the Khatchkar
(cross-stones). The ceremony was led by Ambassador Tatoul Markarian and
featured remarks by Mountainous Karabagh Republic’s representative Vardan
Barseghyan, and the participation of the Washington Homenetmen Armenian
Scouting troop. The program came to a close with a brief religious service led
by Soorp Khatch Armenian Church Pastor, Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian, and Deacon
Kalaydjian from St. Mary’s Armenian Church.

5) KOCE-TV to Air “The Armenian Genocide”

KOCE-TV, the Orange County affiliate of PBS, will air Andrew Goldberg’s
critically acclaimed documentary “The Armenian Genocide,” Wednesday, April 26
at 9:00 PM. The one-hour documentary, which features extensive
never-before-seen historical footage, explores the ongoing controversy of the
Armenian genocide and explains why the Turkish government denies the events
ever took place. KOCE-TV can be viewed on channel 99 for Charter Cable
customers and channel 8 for Adelphia customers.

6) AYF-Western Region Holds Protest at Turkish Consulate

LOS ANGELES–The Armenian Youth Federation-Western Region (AYF-WR) held
Monday,
a protest at the Los Angeles Turkish Consulate in commemoration of the 1.5
million Armenians lost their lives in the genocide perpetrated by the Ottoman
Empire from 1915 to 1923.
10,000 protesters gathered in front of the Turkish consulate in order to
protest against the Turkish Government and its ongoing denial of the Armenian
genocide. The protesters demonstrated peacefully in front of the consulate,
demanding recognition of the Genocide, as well as reparations and restitution
that are long overdue. The protest came to an end with a few words by Tro
Tchekidjian, chairperson of the AYF-WR.
“Recognition is not enough,” said Tchekidjian. “For there to be a just
resolution, reparations and restitution are also necessary.”
The annual protest is one of many events commemorating the first genocide of
the 20th century. The protest shows the Turkish Government and the
community at
large that the Armenian people will never forget the atrocities committed in
1915. “The actions of the Turkish government are fresh in our minds until
today; we will continue the fight for justice until our goals are achieved,”
stated protest director Shogher Aslanian. “It is the responsibility of our
generation to make a difference.”
The AYF-WR has been organizing protests in front of the Turkish Consulate for
over 25 years. The organization has been successful in gathering more
community
members to the event each year. With the active participation of the youth and
community in such events, the AYF-WR is hopeful that it will be our generation
who will witness the recognition of the Armenian genocide and everything that
accompanies it.

7) Kocharian Thanks Lithuania for Genocide Recognition

YEREVAN (RFE/RL)–President Robert Kocharian thanked Lithuania for its
Parliament’s recent recognition of the Armenian genocide as he received his
visiting Lithuanian counterpart, Valdas Adamkus, on Tuesday.
In a resolution overwhelmingly approved last December, the Baltic state’s
legislature, the Seimas, urged Turkey to “recognize historical facts” and
recognize the 1915 genocide of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. The Turkish
Government denounced the move.
“The issue is very important for us and it is not just historical in
nature as
today our relations with Turkey are burdened by this historical reality,”
Kocharian told reporters after talks with Adamkus. “I think that recognizing
the Genocide and coming to terms with history is extremely important for
normalizing our [Turkish-Armenian] relations.”
He said Yerevan will continue to seek worldwide recognition of the
Genocide in
collaboration with leaders of the Armenian diaspora.
Adamkus arrived in Yerevan on a official visit which focused on ways of
restoring economic ties that used to exist between the two former Soviet
republics. They announced plans to hold a Lithuanian-Armenian business
forum in
the near future.
A statement by Kocharian’s office said Armenia’s relations with the European
Union, which Lithuania joined two years ago, were also on the agenda of the
talks. Kocharian again stated that his country is interested in learning from
Lithuania’s as well as neighboring Latvia’s and Estonia’s successful
transition
to democracy and the free market.
The Lithuanian president, for his part, made a case for political and
economic
integration in the South Caucasus. “We have discussed common regional
policies,” he said. “I think it is about time our regions–the South Caucasus
and the Baltic states–joined forces to build a better future. This is what we
call a three-plus-three formula which I think will become reality after this
meeting.”

8) Turkey Should Recognize Genocide before Joining EU

YEREVAN (Yerkir)–Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau
representative
Hrant Markarian spoke Monday at the Armenian Genocide Memorial about the
importance of commemorating and gaining recognition of the Armenian genocide.
“For the Armenian people, April 24 is not only a day of commemoration but
also
a day of struggle since by paying homage to the memory of the innocent victims
we also express our protest to the Turkish Government,” said Markarian.
“The stronger Armenia becomes the closer we’ll get to the admission of the
Armenian genocide by Turkey.” He added that recognition, however, “is not our
only goal, we should also demand our rights.”
“Armenians’ rights to live, survive, and develop were violated by the
Genocide, and by the recognition of the Genocide, we will restore those
rights,” Markarian said.
When asked if Turkey would be accepted to the European Union without
recognition of the Genocide, Markarian answered, “If Turkey has decided to
join
the EU, it should be able to admit its guilt and thus gain the right to join
it. To be a part of Europe, Turkey should become Europeanized itself.”

9) Canada’s Armenian Genocide Comment Angers Turkey

ANKARA (AFP)–Turkey’s foreign ministry said that a reference by Canada’s
Prime
Minister Stephen Harper to the “Armenian genocide” as fact had hurt bilateral
relations between the two countries.
“We are appalled by the prime minister’s comments, which give support to
Armenia’s unfounded allegations of genocide,” the ministry said in a
statement.
The statement said Harper’s reference to the “Armenian allegations” as fact
was serious, and that his position on the issue would “negatively affect ties
between Turkey and Canada.”
The Canadian head of government had on Friday praised commemorations of the
Genocide.
He noted that the Canadian Senate had passed a resolution in 2002 recognizing
the Armenian genocide as the first genocide of the 20th century, and the House
of Commons had followed suit two years later.
“My party and I have applied those resolutions and continue to do so,” the
prime minister said in a statement.
The Turkish foreign ministry said the two resolutions had led to the
“stagnation” of bilateral relations.
The Turkish newspaper Hurriyet on Tuesday quoted a diplomat as saying the
Canadian Prime Minister’s comments had led to Canadian companies being
excluded
from a forthcoming bid to build Turkey’s first nuclear plant.
Armenians in Canada marked the 91st anniversary of the Genocide on Sunday.

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[Congressional Record: April 24, 2006 (Senate)]
[Page S3415-S3416]
>From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:cr24ap06-28]

91ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I rise today to acknowledge and
commemorate April 24, 2005, the 91st anniversary of the beginning of
the Armenian genocide. I do so because I believe it is necessary to
recognize and ensure that similar atrocities do not happen in the
future.
No one knows this better than the 500,000 Armenians who are living in
my home State of California. These men, women, and children are a
shining example of the backbone of our society and serve as a symbol of
perseverance and determination.
Their ancestors came to our country to build a better life for
themselves and their families, and today, Armenian-Americans recognize
that the repercussions of allowing aggression and injustice against
ethnic, religious, or minority groups to persist can be dire.
During the Armenian genocide, which took place between 1915 and 1923,
over a million Armenians were killed, and another 500,000 were driven
from their homes.
We must never again allow a human tragedy to occur on this scale. It
is unacceptable to witness thousands of innocent victims suffer and die
without taking any action.
And I know this issue not only resonates with the Armenians in
California but with everyone in the country. Every day, numerous
constituents from different backgrounds call my office asking what
Congress and the administration are doing to prevent genocide from
occurring again.
It is absolutely essential that we do not let history repeat itself.
We can–and we must–do better.
The Armenian-American community knows this all too well and today, we
stand with them in commemorating the start of the Armenian genocide. So
let us renew our commitment to support those around the world who face
persecution and even death simply because of who they are. We will
never forget the Armenian genocide, and we look to the present and
future with a newfound sense of hope and optimism so that we may have
the strength to stand up and prevent such atrocities.
Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to commemorate the
91st anniversary of the Armenian genocide on April 24th. This
anniversary offers an opportunity for us to renew our

[[Page S3416]]

efforts to achieve–finally–genocide recognition for the Armenian
people.
Ninety-one years ago, the Ottoman Turks began their systematic effort
to eradicate the Armenian people. From 1915 until 1923, 1.5 million
Armenians were tortured and killed; men were separated from their
families and murdered; women and children were forced to march across
the Syrian desert without water, food, or possessions; many died of
hunger or thirst or were killed when they lagged behind during the
forced marches into the desert.
The brutality of the genocide was atrocious. But the inhumanity
continues today because the Turkish Government refuses to acknowledge
the massacres as genocide. The wounds cannot heal until the Armenian
people receive recognition.
The Armenian genocide was the first genocide of the 20th century. But
as we have seen, it was not the last. As we know, if we ignore
injustice, we are likely to see it repeated. In his justification for
the Holocaust, Adolf Hitler said, “Who, after all, speaks today of the
annihilation of the Armenians?” And today, we see ongoing atrocities
in the Darfur region of Sudan, with innocent civilians being murdered.
In the 108th Congress, I cosponsored a resolution declaring that the
atrocities in Darfur constitute genocide.
I am currently a cosponsor of a resolution calling the President to
ensure that the foreign policy of the United States reflects
appropriate understanding and sensitivity concerning issues related to
human rights, ethnic cleansing, and genocide documented in the record
of the United States relating to the Armenian genocide and the
consequences of the failure to realize a just resolution. And I have
signed onto a letter urging President Bush to honor the historic
leadership of the United States in defending human rights and to
properly characterize the atrocities against the Armenian people as
genocide in his April 24th statement.
Every year, we move closer to recognition of the Armenian genocide.
But every year, we wonder how long it will take the Government of
Turkey to acknowledge the genocide.
We need genocide recognition to honor those 1.5 million Armenians who
lost their lives and to honor the survivors who are still with us
today. We need recognition to send a message to the 8 to 10 million
Armenians worldwide that they have not been forgotten. We need genocide
recognition to remind the world that crimes against humanity are crimes
against us all. And we need genocide recognition because it is the
right thing to do.
By acknowledging this genocide for what it is, I hope that we are
able to help create a more just and humane world.
Mr. REED. Mr. President, on behalf of the Armenian population of
Rhode Island and Armenians around the world, I want to recognize the
91st anniversary of the Armenian genocide.
Ninety-one years ago today, April 24, the Young Turk leaders of the
Ottoman Empire summoned and executed over 200 Armenian community
leaders. By 1923, an estimated 1.5 million Armenians were murdered, and
another one half million were exiled, affecting the lives of every
Armenian in Asia Minor.
Author John Minassian, a survivor of the 1915 Armenian genocide,
tells of his experience. “These fine people were now being made into
refugees only because they had clung to their ancient beliefs and the
faith of their ancestors. They marched proudly under a yoke of hatred,
prejudice and bigotry, their morale high, their spirit as yet unbroken.
They knew that their only `crime’ was being Armenian.”
The Armenian genocide was condemned at the time by representatives of
the British, French, Russian, German, and Austrian Governments, both
foes and allies of the Ottoman Empire.
Today, as a cosponsor of S. Res. 320, I call on the President to
ensure that the foreign policy of the United States reflects
appropriate understanding and sensitivity concerning issues related to
human rights, ethnic cleansing, and genocide documented in the record
of the United States relating to the Armenian genocide.
Armenian soldiers have supported Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of
the Polish-led multinational division in south-central Iraq. Working as
truck drivers, bomb detonators, and doctors, Armenia has not allowed
others to be left helpless as they were nearly a century ago. The
United States is proud to have Armenia as an ally in the rebuilding and
reconstruction of Iraq.
So as history does not repeat itself, we must study and remember the
events of our past. In instances such as the Armenian genocide, all
nations must educate their youth in the hatred, the wrongdoing, and the
oppression to deter future atrocities against humanity. Not more that
two decades after the Armenian genocide, Hitler said to his generals on
the eve of sending his death squads into Poland, “Go, kill without
mercy . . . who today remembers the annihilation of the Armenians.” We
remember the Armenians.
Menk panav chenk mornar. We will never forget.

PEOPLE VOICE THEIR SUPPORT TO U.S. AMBASSADOR TO ARMENIA AT ARMENIAN GENOCIDE MEMORIAL

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. Action in support of U.S. Ambassador
to Armenia John Evans is underway at Armenian Genocide Memorial
in Yerevan.

Yellow ropes with yellow ribbons are stretched along the path to the
Memorial as an action in support of Ambassador John Evans. To note,
Washington intends to recall the Ambassador for unofficial recognition
of Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey in 1915, American Mass Media
report. In his turn, John Evans visited the Genocide Memorial on
April 24, but avoided any comments to journalists.

TABOO ON DISCUSSION OF ARMENIAN GENOCIDE IN TURKEY WILL BE LIFTED

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. “We would give much for the Turkish
nations to reconcile themselves with the historical fact of the
Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey,” the chairman of the “Union
Against Genocide” NGO (Turkey) Ali Ertem.

He is sure that the taboo on the discussion of the Armenian Genocide
in Turkey will be lifted in the coming years. Turkey’s intention to
become a EU member will promote the freedom of speech in the country.

THE PARENTS OF THE DEAD INDIAN STUDENT ADDRESSED THE AUTHORITIES TO FIND OUT THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE LETHAL ACCIDENT

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. The parents of Prashant Anchalia, Indian
student who died falling out of the window of a dormitory in Yerevan,
addressed the President, Speaker and Prime Minister of India to find
out the circumstances of the lethal accident.

Through the Indian Embassy in Armenia the parents also intend to
address the Yerevan Medical University with a similar request.

‘Telegraph’ newspaper, India, reports that the parents of young
Anchalia, as well as his university-fellows, do not trust the version
of suicide. The body was delivered to India on April 23.

The death of Prashant Anchalia roused the protest of numerous
Indian students in Armenia who were irritated by the indifference
of the police, University administration and the ineffective work
of the ambulance. Most of all the Indian students were offended of
the actions of Gohar Kialian, rector of the Medical University who
vulgarly expressed disrespect for all the Indian nation.

A criminal case has been roused on this fact. The General Prosecutor’s
office has published the evidence of eyewitness Prabhat Kumar,
neighbor of Anchalia. Kumar confessed he had a quarrel with Anchalia
on the day of his death. Anchalia was accusing Kumar for stealing $120.

TURKISH ORGANIZATIONS IN NEW YORK DEMAND AN END TO ACCUSATIONS AGAINST TURKISH PEOPLE OF ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. Federation of Turkish Organizations
of the USA as well as “Young Turks” organization rallied in New
York yesterday against the action organized by the local Armenian
community on the occasion of the 91st anniversary of Armenian Genocide
in Ottoman Turkey.

Hurriyet reports about 500 Turks and Azerbaijanis as participating in
the rally. They were demanding an end to the accusations of Armenian
Genocide and carrying flags of Turkey and Azerbaijan.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS VISITS ARMENIAN GENOCIDE MEMORIAL

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II
visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial Titsernakaberd today, reports
the press service of the Holy See of Echmiadzin.

Together with Armenian President Robert Kocharyan His Holiness laid
flowers to the Memorial and gave a liturgy in the memory of the
Genocide victims.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ANKARA WILL RECOGNIZE THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE AS SOON AS WASHINGTON DOES

Yerevan, April 24. ArmInfo. Ankara will recognize the Armenian
Genocide in the Ottoman Turkey, 1915, as soon as Washington does so,
said in an interview to ‘Voice of America’ program Aram Abrahamian,
director executive of ‘Hay Dat’ (The Armenian Case) Washington office.

Mr. Abrahamian underlined that recognition of the Armenian genocide
will prevent similar crimes against mankind in the future. ‘The
Armenian people is unsafe until the genocide is recognized,’ he said.

He also said that the mission of the Hay Dat organization
is to represent the approaches of the Armenian side, enhance
American-Armenian relations. The organization also works to make the
USA authorities acquainted with the history of the Karabakh conflict.

Nevertheless the main goal of Hay Dat is to achieve worldwide
recognition of the Genocide.